FORT COLLINS, Colo. – The Colorado State Forest Service is now accepting orders on a first-come, first-serve basis for low-cost seedling trees, shrubs and perennials grown at its Fort Collins nursery. More than 100 species/size options are available, with seedlings ordered now to be distributed statewide next spring.
Coloradans interested in conservation goals such as creating natural windbreaks, improving wildlife habitat or reforesting properties impacted by wildfire or floods are eligible to purchase the seedlings. CSFS Nursery Manager Josh Stolz says Colorado-grown species are adaptable and ideal for a variety of conservation uses, and that the nursery’s selection has increased over the past few years.
The CSFS seedling tree program is designed to encourage Colorado landowners to plant seedling trees and shrubs for conservation purposes. Through a cooperative effort with Colorado State University Extension offices and county conservation districts throughout the state, approximately 5,000 Coloradans obtain CSFS seedling trees each year.
Conservation seedlings have many uses and benefits, including:
- Wind/snow control to protect roadways and livestock
- Enhanced wildlife habitat/forage
- Reforestation and reclamation
- Increased property values
- Energy conservation through reduced utility bills
- Carbon sequestration
- Reduced soil erosion
- Creating habitat for honeybees and other pollinators
There is no minimum acreage requirement for landowners to purchase CSFS seedling trees for conservation, reclamation and reforestation goals.
For more information about the CSFS seedling tree program, contact a local CSFS district office, or call the nursery directly at 970-491-8429.